OUR HRT MANIFESTO

1. Allow pharmacists to dispense substitutes if the prescribed HRT is out of stock

Currently, if an HRT product is unavailable, a pharmacist cannot substitute another product without consulting the prescribing GP, forcing patients to go back and forth between doctor and pharmacy. This could be avoided if pharmacists are allowed to alter prescriptions themselves. They should also be able to move stock between different pharmacies.

2. End the postcode lottery

Local areas all have different formularies – or lists – of approved HRT products, meaning women face a postcode lottery of treatments. A national list of all approved HRT products would ensure women have equal access, and that alternative treatments are available faster.

3. Immediately introduce the once-a-year payment for HRT medication

An annual prescription payment for HRT, which could save women up to £200 a year, is planned for April 2023. This must be implemented urgently, especially during the cost-of-living squeeze, so all women can afford treatment.

4. Bring forward mandatory requirement for medical students to be taught about the menopause

A curriculum change needs to be introduced sooner than January 2023, when it is planned. This will ensure all doctors have the training to recognise menopause symptoms, which will help reduce the rate of misdiagnoses.

5. Provide menopause information to women at their NHS health check

Everyone who doesn’t have a pre-existing medical condition is invited for a free check-up every five years between the ages of 40 and 74. Women should be given information at these health checks to raise awareness of the menopause and treatment options.